Sex Therapists in Artesia, CA

Photo of Samantha Tomarchio, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Tomarchio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90703
Ciao, I'm Samantha Elisabetta Tomarchio, LMFT. I am a licensed trauma, sex, and relationship psychotherapist. My work is intersectional, attachment-based, and rooted in somatic awareness of the body with a mindfulness twist. I have extensive experience working with folks who hold multicultural identities, who are of the LBGTQIA+ population, as well as, though not limited to, those struggling with sexual / sexuality-related intimacy and relationship issues.
Ciao, I'm Samantha Elisabetta Tomarchio, LMFT. I am a licensed trauma, sex, and relationship psychotherapist. My work is intersectional, attachment-based, and rooted in somatic awareness of the body with a mindfulness twist. I have extensive experience working with folks who hold multicultural identities, who are of the LBGTQIA+ population, as well as, though not limited to, those struggling with sexual / sexuality-related intimacy and relationship issues.
(323) 990-4309 View (323) 990-4309

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kristen Crowe - Open Space Therapy Collective, LPCC, BC-DMT
Kristen Crowe - Open Space Therapy Collective
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
Healthy relationships, sexuality, body image, emotional regulation, and creative expression are possible for you.
You deserve to feel good in your body. You deserve relationships that contribute to your well-being- not detract from it. You deserve to enjoy healthy expressions of your sexuality. But due to societal pressures and less-than-helpful toxic norms and legacies, these are areas where many people struggle. As a sex-positive, anti-racist, queer & trans-knowledgeable therapist, I’m here to provide non-judgemental support. In therapy, you’ll learn gentle tools to help you love and accept your body, manage your stress, elevate your mood, and improve your relationships.
Healthy relationships, sexuality, body image, emotional regulation, and creative expression are possible for you.
You deserve to feel good in your body. You deserve relationships that contribute to your well-being- not detract from it. You deserve to enjoy healthy expressions of your sexuality. But due to societal pressures and less-than-helpful toxic norms and legacies, these are areas where many people struggle. As a sex-positive, anti-racist, queer & trans-knowledgeable therapist, I’m here to provide non-judgemental support. In therapy, you’ll learn gentle tools to help you love and accept your body, manage your stress, elevate your mood, and improve your relationships.
(818) 696-4274 View (818) 696-4274
Photo of Cynthia Obershaw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Obershaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Compton, CA 90221
My name is Cynthia Obershaw. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I believe that people have the ability to heal themselves with guidance and understanding. I am passionate about providing gentle guidance, support, and understanding in the therapeutic journey. I work with clients who have adjustment disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, phase of life issues, addiction, existential issues, and people with spiritual issues. I am currently working towards a credential in sex therapy.
My name is Cynthia Obershaw. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I believe that people have the ability to heal themselves with guidance and understanding. I am passionate about providing gentle guidance, support, and understanding in the therapeutic journey. I work with clients who have adjustment disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, phase of life issues, addiction, existential issues, and people with spiritual issues. I am currently working towards a credential in sex therapy.
(626) 603-5487 View (626) 603-5487
Photo of Courtney Parker, L, M, F, T, Marriage & Family Therapist
Courtney Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist, L, M, F, T
Verified Verified
Compton, CA 90221
We are experienced in working with couples and with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship problems, gender/sexuality issues and life transitions.
Let's eliminate the same problem, different day, bandaid approach, and create a plan that will provide lasting solutions. Let us help you end the cycle that keeps you from moving forward with your life and from reaching your personal goals.
We are experienced in working with couples and with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship problems, gender/sexuality issues and life transitions.
Let's eliminate the same problem, different day, bandaid approach, and create a plan that will provide lasting solutions. Let us help you end the cycle that keeps you from moving forward with your life and from reaching your personal goals.
(310) 706-2722 View (310) 706-2722
Photo of Holly Richmond, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holly Richmond
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seal Beach, CA 90740
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, and hold a PhD in Somatic Psychology (body psychology). This unique combination of credentials facilitates a focus on clients' cognitive process as well as mind-body health. I work with a diverse client base including women, men, couples and gender-diverse individuals on relationship and sexuality issues. My treatment specialties include: recovery of sexual health after sexual trauma, sexless marriages/relationships, compulsive sexuality (often called "addiction") and non-traditional sexual expression including fetishes and redefining monogamy.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, and hold a PhD in Somatic Psychology (body psychology). This unique combination of credentials facilitates a focus on clients' cognitive process as well as mind-body health. I work with a diverse client base including women, men, couples and gender-diverse individuals on relationship and sexuality issues. My treatment specialties include: recovery of sexual health after sexual trauma, sexless marriages/relationships, compulsive sexuality (often called "addiction") and non-traditional sexual expression including fetishes and redefining monogamy.
(424) 255-3638 x562881 View (424) 255-3638 x562881
Photo of Nancy Ortiz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92805  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a Queer Bicultural & Bilingual Psychotherapist, I specialize in cultural centered sex therapy and psychotherapy for QTBIPOC couples and individuals. I support folks in creating a fulfilling sex life and achieve emotional wellness. Learn how to improve your communication of sexual needs/wants, explore gender and sexuality, feel less shame about sexual interests/behaviors, recover from sexual harm/abuse or infidelity, have pleasurable sex, and strengthen intimacy with yourself and partner(s). Schedule your free 20 min phone consultation at nancy-ortiz.clientsecure.me
Welcome! I am a Queer Bicultural & Bilingual Psychotherapist, I specialize in cultural centered sex therapy and psychotherapy for QTBIPOC couples and individuals. I support folks in creating a fulfilling sex life and achieve emotional wellness. Learn how to improve your communication of sexual needs/wants, explore gender and sexuality, feel less shame about sexual interests/behaviors, recover from sexual harm/abuse or infidelity, have pleasurable sex, and strengthen intimacy with yourself and partner(s). Schedule your free 20 min phone consultation at nancy-ortiz.clientsecure.me
(323) 347-5383 View (323) 347-5383
Photo of Dr. Christy Cosper, PhD, LMFT, CSAT-S, CPTT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Christy Cosper
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CSAT-S, CPTT-S
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
Do you worry your relationship is falling apart or find yourself in an unsatisfying situation? Has the initial excitement of your relationship faded, leaving you feeling disconnected? Is your sex life not what it used to be? Have you noticed red flags but not sure what do do? Whether you're facing communication problems, intimacy issues, or lingering conflicts, Do you feel you might want to end a relationship and feel guilty doing so? It's challenging to decide on whether to stay or leave a relationships. When children or finances are involved, you may find yourself feeling trapped and unsure of how to move forward.
Do you worry your relationship is falling apart or find yourself in an unsatisfying situation? Has the initial excitement of your relationship faded, leaving you feeling disconnected? Is your sex life not what it used to be? Have you noticed red flags but not sure what do do? Whether you're facing communication problems, intimacy issues, or lingering conflicts, Do you feel you might want to end a relationship and feel guilty doing so? It's challenging to decide on whether to stay or leave a relationships. When children or finances are involved, you may find yourself feeling trapped and unsure of how to move forward.
(562) 454-1770 View (562) 454-1770
Photo of Shannon Hanrahan, PsyD, PhD, Psychologist
Shannon Hanrahan
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Verified Verified
Fullerton, CA 92832
Accepting new clients with the hope of turning this unusual time in history into a positive step in yours. In addition to my psychology credentials I also have a Ph.D. in sexology and a second masters in Psychopharmacology. While I don't believe that this is what sets me apart I do believe it is a strong foundation for my diverse client population. I work with addiction, alcohol monitoring, all sex related and mood issues, either chronic or secondary to life changes. I can see clients from anywhere in California or New Mexico via telehealth or anyone near my 3 offices once quarantine is lifted. (WLA/Fullerton/Newhall).
Accepting new clients with the hope of turning this unusual time in history into a positive step in yours. In addition to my psychology credentials I also have a Ph.D. in sexology and a second masters in Psychopharmacology. While I don't believe that this is what sets me apart I do believe it is a strong foundation for my diverse client population. I work with addiction, alcohol monitoring, all sex related and mood issues, either chronic or secondary to life changes. I can see clients from anywhere in California or New Mexico via telehealth or anyone near my 3 offices once quarantine is lifted. (WLA/Fullerton/Newhall).
(714) 928-9581 View (714) 928-9581
Photo of Liz Dubé, MA, MS, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liz Dubé
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
Would you like to feel sexually empowered to have the sex life you've always wanted... to experience greater sexual awareness and sexual satisfaction in your relationships? I want to help you get beyond sex-related fears, anxiety, guilt, shame, obsessive behaviors, or past traumas that may be impacting your relationships and intimacy. In my sex therapy practice we will work on exploring and processing your struggles, gaining the strength to overcome sex and intimacy issues, and more effective ways for communicating to ultimately create greater satisfaction in your life.
Would you like to feel sexually empowered to have the sex life you've always wanted... to experience greater sexual awareness and sexual satisfaction in your relationships? I want to help you get beyond sex-related fears, anxiety, guilt, shame, obsessive behaviors, or past traumas that may be impacting your relationships and intimacy. In my sex therapy practice we will work on exploring and processing your struggles, gaining the strength to overcome sex and intimacy issues, and more effective ways for communicating to ultimately create greater satisfaction in your life.
(562) 277-1069 View (562) 277-1069
Photo of Dr. Liz Wee - Liz Wee, Couples, Sex, Art & Hypnotherapist, PATP, PhD, LMFT, CST, ATR, PATP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liz Wee, Couples, Sex, Art & Hypnotherapist, PATP
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CST, ATR, PATP
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807
As a Certified Sex Therapist, I also assist with exploring and addressing sexual dysfunctions and desire mismatches.
Are you in a romantic relationship that feels stagnant or unstable, or are you single because you struggle to find a healthy connection? You're not alone. Many of us face relational issues that prevent us from living an authentic and fulfilling life. We all desire healthy relationships, especially with romantic partners, but often struggle to create or maintain them due to unaddressed attachment issues from childhood. Without healing these attachment wounds, we may find ourselves repeating similar unhealthy patterns.
As a Certified Sex Therapist, I also assist with exploring and addressing sexual dysfunctions and desire mismatches.
Are you in a romantic relationship that feels stagnant or unstable, or are you single because you struggle to find a healthy connection? You're not alone. Many of us face relational issues that prevent us from living an authentic and fulfilling life. We all desire healthy relationships, especially with romantic partners, but often struggle to create or maintain them due to unaddressed attachment issues from childhood. Without healing these attachment wounds, we may find ourselves repeating similar unhealthy patterns.
(562) 352-2175 View (562) 352-2175
Photo of James Foley - Sexual Addiction Sex Misbehavior Infidelity Expert, LCSW, SOTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sexual Addiction Sex Misbehavior Infidelity Expert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SOTS
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92841
My clients are high functioning successful men accustomed to superior services who want to stop the sexual addiction, infidelity / cheating , and paid sex behaviors.
I will help you protect the life you love from self destructive choices. Sexual addiction elite level expert 27 years + 45k hours sexual misbehavior specialist psychotherapy provided, Together we will use evidence based research oriented methods on your Infidelity / Cheating /Affairs, Prostitution Use, Seeking Arrangements, Sugar Daddy, Strip Clubs, Massage Parlors, Certified Specialist. I created government funded sexual misbehavior programs utilizing highly effective clinical models and now you and I will use the most up to date understandings to have you change your thinking, end these behaviors, and heal your relationships.
My clients are high functioning successful men accustomed to superior services who want to stop the sexual addiction, infidelity / cheating , and paid sex behaviors.
I will help you protect the life you love from self destructive choices. Sexual addiction elite level expert 27 years + 45k hours sexual misbehavior specialist psychotherapy provided, Together we will use evidence based research oriented methods on your Infidelity / Cheating /Affairs, Prostitution Use, Seeking Arrangements, Sugar Daddy, Strip Clubs, Massage Parlors, Certified Specialist. I created government funded sexual misbehavior programs utilizing highly effective clinical models and now you and I will use the most up to date understandings to have you change your thinking, end these behaviors, and heal your relationships.
(562) 600-4018 View (562) 600-4018
Photo of Christene Lozano (Certified Sex Therapist), MS, LMFT, CST, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christene Lozano (Certified Sex Therapist)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CST, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90804  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with sexual concerns, you have come to the right place. Some sexual concerns may include: low/high sexual desire, desire discrepancy, a sexless relationship, sexual difficulties (e.g. painful sex, early/delayed ejaculation), sexual trauma, rebuilding emotional and sexual intimacy, and unhealthy relationship patterns. Or perhaps you are struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors. You have realized that your sexual thoughts and behaviors are getting out of control, or you have discovered that your partner is compulsively using sex or porn. You are feeling understandably betrayed, hurt, angry, and confused.
If you are struggling with sexual concerns, you have come to the right place. Some sexual concerns may include: low/high sexual desire, desire discrepancy, a sexless relationship, sexual difficulties (e.g. painful sex, early/delayed ejaculation), sexual trauma, rebuilding emotional and sexual intimacy, and unhealthy relationship patterns. Or perhaps you are struggling with compulsive sexual behaviors. You have realized that your sexual thoughts and behaviors are getting out of control, or you have discovered that your partner is compulsively using sex or porn. You are feeling understandably betrayed, hurt, angry, and confused.
(888) 912-7556 View (888) 912-7556
Photo of Danny Nava, MA, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danny Nava
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Whittier, CA 90601
Family, friends, work, sex, life, and love.
Your relationship is falling apart. Your life isn't where you want it to be. You don't like who you see in the mirror. You’re feeling anxious, depressed, lost…maybe angry. Or perhaps confused because no matter what you do, things tend to stay the same. You should have the job, romance, and life you want. You’ve done everything you’re “supposed” to so what happened? Why are you still stuck?
Family, friends, work, sex, life, and love.
Your relationship is falling apart. Your life isn't where you want it to be. You don't like who you see in the mirror. You’re feeling anxious, depressed, lost…maybe angry. Or perhaps confused because no matter what you do, things tend to stay the same. You should have the job, romance, and life you want. You’ve done everything you’re “supposed” to so what happened? Why are you still stuck?
(562) 262-5760 View (562) 262-5760
Photo of Nicolette Zangari, PhD, Psychologist
Nicolette Zangari
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
Feeling lost in the maze of your own experiences? I'll help you navigate trauma, identity, and relationships — illuminating paths to healing you might not see alone. With a background in clinical research on gender and sexuality issues, and extensive clinical experience helping veterans reclaim their lives from PTSD, I bring a unique blend of expertise and genuine care to our work together. I've worked with the most severe cases of psychosis and personality disorder, all the way to ordinary grief, anxiety, and questions of meaning.
Feeling lost in the maze of your own experiences? I'll help you navigate trauma, identity, and relationships — illuminating paths to healing you might not see alone. With a background in clinical research on gender and sexuality issues, and extensive clinical experience helping veterans reclaim their lives from PTSD, I bring a unique blend of expertise and genuine care to our work together. I've worked with the most severe cases of psychosis and personality disorder, all the way to ordinary grief, anxiety, and questions of meaning.
(562) 393-6581 View (562) 393-6581
Photo of Vanessa Icazbalceta-Soto, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Vanessa Icazbalceta-Soto
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Whittier, CA 90606  (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m a Spanish speaking sex-positive therapist, here to support in dismantling negative sex tropes upheld by society. I am trauma informed, centered on experiences of the kink, queer, LGBTQIA and BIPOC communities. I can also help individuals needing support on their weight loss journey while still supporting body positivity as well as fat pride/liberation towards eliminating the social stigma of obesity. Let’s eradicate long-standing negative attitudes towards sex and body for a more fulfilling, meaningful life and elevate your strengths, develop coping skills and open a space for you to feel authentic, safe, and empowered.
Welcome! I’m a Spanish speaking sex-positive therapist, here to support in dismantling negative sex tropes upheld by society. I am trauma informed, centered on experiences of the kink, queer, LGBTQIA and BIPOC communities. I can also help individuals needing support on their weight loss journey while still supporting body positivity as well as fat pride/liberation towards eliminating the social stigma of obesity. Let’s eradicate long-standing negative attitudes towards sex and body for a more fulfilling, meaningful life and elevate your strengths, develop coping skills and open a space for you to feel authentic, safe, and empowered.
(562) 609-4284 View (562) 609-4284
Photo of Amy Furuyama, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Furuyama
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden Grove, CA 92640
Have you been struggling in your relationships? Or perhaps feeling sexual shame or difficulties in your sex life? Maybe you're tired of dealing with intimacy issues and feeling disconnected with your partner, and you are now ready to make some positive changes. You're at the right place. I'm an Asian-American sex therapist passionate about helping individuals gain sexual confidence within yourself and in your relationships.
Have you been struggling in your relationships? Or perhaps feeling sexual shame or difficulties in your sex life? Maybe you're tired of dealing with intimacy issues and feeling disconnected with your partner, and you are now ready to make some positive changes. You're at the right place. I'm an Asian-American sex therapist passionate about helping individuals gain sexual confidence within yourself and in your relationships.
View
Photo of Jennifer Rodriguez LeBar, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Rodriguez LeBar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92805
Are you seeking more awareness in your sexuality or greater satisfaction in your sexual life and relationships? I will help you move beyond the shame, fear, doubt, anxiety, traumas or anything else that is impacting your relationships and wellbeing. We will work collaboratively to address any barriers or difficulties that may be getting in the way so that you can build greater confidence, strength, and healthier connections on your empowering journey of life, love and sexuality. Issues treated include: desire discrepancies between partners, difficulties with arousal or orgasm, painful sex, exploration of kink or nonmonogamy.
Are you seeking more awareness in your sexuality or greater satisfaction in your sexual life and relationships? I will help you move beyond the shame, fear, doubt, anxiety, traumas or anything else that is impacting your relationships and wellbeing. We will work collaboratively to address any barriers or difficulties that may be getting in the way so that you can build greater confidence, strength, and healthier connections on your empowering journey of life, love and sexuality. Issues treated include: desire discrepancies between partners, difficulties with arousal or orgasm, painful sex, exploration of kink or nonmonogamy.
(657) 246-1213 View (657) 246-1213
Photo of Lee R. Blackwell, PhD, Psychologist
Lee R. Blackwell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
My training as a sex therapist and then being Co-Director of the UCLA Human Sexuality Clinic for 10 years provides me with a solid background to work with sexual dysfunction, sexual addiction/compulsion, or sexual trauma in a caring and direct way.
I work mainly with adults and late adolescents, individually, in couples and in groups. The areas I specialize in are sexual issues (individuals or couples), adults molested as children, emotional intimacy, communication, anxiety, depression, self-awareness, and deep and lasting character change. In my 45 years of practicing counseling and psychotherapy I've worked with a wide variety of people of different ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, religions, and those with physical challenges. I find it immensely rewarding to work with people who are actively seeking to resolve problems through increased self-awareness.
My training as a sex therapist and then being Co-Director of the UCLA Human Sexuality Clinic for 10 years provides me with a solid background to work with sexual dysfunction, sexual addiction/compulsion, or sexual trauma in a caring and direct way.
I work mainly with adults and late adolescents, individually, in couples and in groups. The areas I specialize in are sexual issues (individuals or couples), adults molested as children, emotional intimacy, communication, anxiety, depression, self-awareness, and deep and lasting character change. In my 45 years of practicing counseling and psychotherapy I've worked with a wide variety of people of different ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, religions, and those with physical challenges. I find it immensely rewarding to work with people who are actively seeking to resolve problems through increased self-awareness.
(714) 584-4901 View (714) 584-4901
Photo of Sex And Relationship Specialist: Rachel Thomas, AMFT
Sex And Relationship Specialist: Rachel Thomas
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92802  (Online Only)
Are you ready for a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling sex life? By offering a holistic and personalized approach to sex therapy, I empower my clients to address their concerns, enhance their sexual well-being, and cultivate satisfying relationships. Together, we'll navigate the twists and turns of your lived experiences, finding a path towards healing, resilience, and profound transformation. Whether you're facing challenges in your personal exploration of pleasure or seeking to bridge the communication gap with your partner, I provide a safe space for vulnerability, acceptance, and growth.
Are you ready for a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling sex life? By offering a holistic and personalized approach to sex therapy, I empower my clients to address their concerns, enhance their sexual well-being, and cultivate satisfying relationships. Together, we'll navigate the twists and turns of your lived experiences, finding a path towards healing, resilience, and profound transformation. Whether you're facing challenges in your personal exploration of pleasure or seeking to bridge the communication gap with your partner, I provide a safe space for vulnerability, acceptance, and growth.
(657) 500-0449 View (657) 500-0449
Photo of Molly Papp - Bella Vida Therapy with Molly Papp, LMFT, CSAT, MS, MPH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bella Vida Therapy with Molly Papp
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, MS, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I am a Certified Sex Addiction Counselor, CSAT.
You deserve to live 'la bella vida:' a beautiful life. But sometimes life doesn’t always feel beautiful. If it's hard to get close to people, you have been shockingly betrayed, or you feel you have an unhealthy relationship with sex, I can help you. You are not alone. I will be your advocate and guide. I currently can hold teletherapy sessions in California and Vermont. I'm sex positive, trauma-informed and try to offer a safe, supportive place for processing so my clients can move forward in their lives with grace and self-respect.
I am a Certified Sex Addiction Counselor, CSAT.
You deserve to live 'la bella vida:' a beautiful life. But sometimes life doesn’t always feel beautiful. If it's hard to get close to people, you have been shockingly betrayed, or you feel you have an unhealthy relationship with sex, I can help you. You are not alone. I will be your advocate and guide. I currently can hold teletherapy sessions in California and Vermont. I'm sex positive, trauma-informed and try to offer a safe, supportive place for processing so my clients can move forward in their lives with grace and self-respect.
(562) 379-6774 View (562) 379-6774
Sex Therapy

Who is sex therapy for?

Sex problems are common in relationships. Many people want a better sex life and want to feel loved and desired by their partner. It is difficult for couples to resolve sexual problems on their own because people often feel ashamed to talk about their sexual desires fearing they are not normal, when in fact a very broad range of preferences and behaviors are normal. A sex therapist can help clarify this and other matters.

Why do people need sex therapy?

Many people do not know how to talk about their erotic needs or their emotional needs, both of which are addressed in sex therapy. Couples often live with sexual difficulties for years before seeking help, and in that time, partners may experience so much disappointment and alienation that they may fear their problems mean they are incompatible. Once people experience disappointment, it is difficult to find resolution without help.

What happens in sex therapy?

People have many misconceptions about what takes place in sex therapy. First, it is a form of talk therapy in which partners discuss their sexual concerns; it does not involve touching or physical exploration of any kind. Sex therapy typically helps couples get comfortable talking to each other about sex so that, in the privacy of their home life, they can openly discuss their sexual desires and make decisions about what they want to do. Couples are typically assigned activities to do at home that build intimacy skills.

What kinds of problems do sex therapists treat?

Very often, partners differ in their degree of sexual desire and struggle over how often to have sex. Or they may have fights about porn use or have difficulty connecting sexually after one partner is unfaithful. Men may have problems with premature ejaculation. Women may find themselves struggling to become aroused or to achieve an orgasm. Sometimes partners feel like they have lost the sense of attraction to their partner. These are all common issues dealt with in sex therapy.